Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue.

Ready, Steady, Play: A National Play Policy which was published in 2004 provides a framework for the development of public play facilities in Ireland, with the overall aim of ensuring children have access to a range of quality play opportunities to enrich their childhood. The development of the policy by the National Children's Office was as a result of consultation with children and young people who identified the lack of play and recreational opportunities as a major quality of life issue. As part of the implementation of this policy, the Department introduced a grants scheme in 2004, whereby allocations were made to city and county councils in respect of the purchase and delivery of playground equipment. Installation and other ancillary costs, including surface materials and fencing, were borne by the local authority. The location of the playgrounds benefiting from the funding is a matter for decision by local authorities. The Department provided funding for local authorities for additional schemes in 2005 and 2006. In all, the Department has allocated funding of over €8 million to county and city councils for the development of 167 new or refurbished playgrounds since 2004.

Kerry County Council has developed four playgrounds under the three playground grant schemes to date. Financial assistance amounting to €257.822.43 has been provided for the council by the Department for this purpose. As such, the council has effectively drawn down all allocations made to it under the schemes. The playgrounds involved are located at Ballybunion, Ballyheigue, Waterville and Fenit. I commend the council on its efficiency in responding promptly to the needs of these communities by installing playgrounds without delay. I understand the council would be in a position to develop playgrounds in four additional locations in County Kerry.

Local authorities are empowered under the Local Government Act 2001 to promote the interests of the local community regarding amenity, recreation and other functions. This includes provision for sports, games and similar activities, as well as general recreational and leisure facilities such as playgrounds. Apart from the direct grants already mentioned which assist local authorities in this regard, the Department also provides significant financial support for local authorities through the local government fund which is usable at the discretion of an authority.

Grant aid of approximately €4.1 million in respect of more than 80 playgrounds remains to be drawn down from the Department by other local authorities under the playground grant schemes. An assessment of the overall scheme will be made by the Department when full information is available upon completion of all the projects in those local authorities currently approved for grant aid. The question of inviting further proposals from Kerry County Council and other local authorities in a position to develop additional playgrounds is being kept under review in the light of progress made under the existing schemes and the availability of funds to the Department for these purposes.

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